Chilke Wali Moong Dal Recipe – A Comforting North Indian Lentil Dish
Peeled Moong Dal, or Chilke Wali Moong Dal, is a wonderfully flavorful North Indian dish. Made with split green moong dal, this comforting lentil recipe combines the rich flavors of aromatic spices and soft, cooked lentils. Perfectly paired with rice, roti, or paratha, this dish brings wholesome nutrition and warmth to your dinner table. Ideal for everyday meals, it’s packed with protein and full of delicious flavors that everyone in your family will enjoy.
Chilke Wali Moong Dal Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: North Indian Recipes
- Course: Dinner
- Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Moong Dal (split) | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Cloves | 3 cloves |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Green Chilies | 2 |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Tomatoes | 1, chopped |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee (or oil) | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh Coriander (leaves) | As needed, for garnish |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Instructions:
-
Prep the Lentils:
Start by washing the green moong dal thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove any dirt and impurities. -
Pressure Cook the Lentils:
In a pressure cooker, add the washed moong dal along with 1-1/2 cups of water. Close the lid, and cook on high heat until you hear two whistles. Reduce the heat and let the dal cook for an additional 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. -
Mash the Lentils:
Open the pressure cooker and carefully mash the cooked dal using a spoon or masher. Keep the mashed dal aside for later. -
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cloves and cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds to release their aroma. -
Sauté Onions and Spices:
Add the finely chopped onion and green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onion turns soft and slightly golden. Then, add the chopped tomatoes along with the turmeric powder and garam masala powder. Stir well and cook for 3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices blend into a fragrant paste. -
Combine the Cooked Dal:
Now, add the mashed moong dal to the pan. Season with salt according to taste, and pour in 1 cup of water to achieve a soupy consistency. Mix everything thoroughly. -
Simmer and Finish:
Bring the dal to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld together. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. -
Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat and garnish the dal with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this aromatic and flavorful Chilke Wali Moong Dal hot with a side of Spring Onion and Potato Sabzi and Phulkas (soft Indian flatbreads). The combination of dal with sabzi and roti makes for a wholesome, satisfying dinner that everyone will love. This recipe not only brings comfort to your meal but is also a nutritious addition to your daily diet.
Pro Tips:
- For extra flavor: You can temper the dal with a small piece of ginger and garlic, finely chopped, along with the onions for an added depth of taste.
- Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red chili powder or extra green chilies while cooking the onions.
- Vegan version: To make the dish vegan, simply replace ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
Enjoy the simplicity and taste of Chilke Wali Moong Dal as a fulfilling part of your everyday meals!
